Reports of snowmobiles on Lake Simcoe have lead to a safety message from the York Regional Police (YRP) Marine Unit.

Police have received reports of citizens driving snowmobiles and other vehicles across the ice on Lake Simcoe. A release from YRP reminds citizens that ice conditions can be very unpredictable and inconsistent.

“Consider consulting with local ice fishing hut providers for the latest conditions as they perform ice-thickness checks daily,” reads the release.

“Lake Simcoe and surrounding waterways still have large sections of open water and as new ice continues to form, it can be relatively thin.  While sections of new ice may appear to be snow covered and stable, we would like to remind all citizens that ice conditions can vary drastically within areas of close proximity and may pose significant risk.”

Police say no ice is ever completely safe.

“Any individual enjoying recreational activities near a body of water must make a personal decision to do so, realizing that there is a degree of risk associated with this choice. It is crucial that citizens take individual responsibility in evaluating the quality of ice,” continues the release.

The police service suggests parents warn their children to stay away from shorelines, river banks and ponds as ice and increasing water flows can be dangerous.

For more information and safety tips, contact the York Regional Police Marine Unit at 1-866-876-5423, extension 7321, or visit the York Regional Police website at www.yrp.ca